Fend is a unique folding bike helmet that banishes the bulk

A Manhattan-based startup is determined to give you one less excuse for not wearing a bike helmet.

If you’re still refusing to strap one to your head because you don’t like the idea of lugging the bulky thing around, then check out this innovative design that’s just hit Kickstarter.

Called Fend, this particular head protecter collapses to a third of its original size, allowing you to pop it in a bag or backpack when you reach your destination.

Now, if you’re thinking, “A helmet that collapses? That doesn’t sound very safe,” then fear not. Fend clicks securely into place when it’s opened up, making it as sturdy as a regular helmet. Most importantly, its hard shell ABS construction and other design features ensure it exceeds both U.S. and European safety standards, and helps it meet all the necessary certification requirements.

Fend’s co-creators, Sujene Kong and Christian Von Heifner, have also come up with an attractive build that puts it ahead of some of the dorkier designs on the market. Even better, it incorporates streamlined vents for maximum breathability. In other words, your head will stay cool when you’re pedaling the streets.

The idea for the unique helmet came about after Christian was hit by a car while out on his bike. No, he wasn’t wearing a helmet.

“This was a major wake-up call and made us ask ourselves why we don’t wear helmets,” Sujene told Digital Trends. “To put it simply, they’re bulky, hot, and annoying to carry around. We realized these reasons were at the expense of our safety and possibly even our lives. As experts in product development and design, we decided to take matters into our own hands.”

The R&D facilities and supply chains are already in place for Fend, but the Manhattan-based team is hoping to secure $40,000 of Kickstarter funding to cover the tooling and manufacturing costs.

Pledge $79 and, assuming the campaign runs according to plan, a Fend helmet will be on your head as early as May 2017. This is an early-bird price so you’ll have to hurry; it’ll cost $120 when it goes on general sale.

When you learn that wearing a bicycle helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 85 percent, cyclists who still forgo the protector might want to start looking around for a design that suits. If the Fend’s of interest, head over to its Kickstarter page to learn more.